Even as both Hewlett-Packard and EDS are yet to make a financial decision on whether to continue operating MphasiS as a fully-owned subsidiary in India, Deepak Patel, a key executive of MphasiS, has resigned from the company with immediate effect.

Patel, who was the managing director and chief operating officer, apart from being a board member of the company, 'has decided to resign and pursue alternate career opportunities,' the company said.

Patel, who played the key role in the successful merger of MphasiS with EDS, was elevated as the MD and COO of the company in September 2006. Previously, he was VP (best shore strategic investments and businessfn development), EDS.